Mary Ella Farrell

MARY ELLA (HODGSON) FARRELL November 30, 1926 ~ December 26, 2012

Mary Ella Farrell, 86, was a life-long resident of Vancouver, WA. Preceded in death by her eldest son, James, she is survived by: William E. 'Bill' Farrell, her husband of 62 years; their children: Barry, Ellen (Les) Jonsson, Ann (Jaime) Cedeno; five grandchildren: Jaleah, Breann and Charlie Jonsson, Melisa and Julian Cedeno; two great-grandchildren: Kaeley and Madhi Jonsson, all of Vancouver; her brother, Frank Hodgson (Vancouver) and her sisters, Shirley Hopfe (N. Carolina) and Jean Hodgson (Lacey, WA). Mary graduated from Vancouver High School, where she enjoyed working on the Alki yearbook. After graduating, she worked for the Clark County Sheriff's Office, where she met Bill. Mary was the first female deputy sheriff in Clark County. A long-time member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, she was active in St. Catherine's Circle. She also took part in the Vancouver Police Officers' Wives Auxiliary. Mary was a member of local knitting guilds, delighting family members with her creations, and donating many winter items to the needy. Gardening, beachcombing, camping, rooting for the Portland Trailblazers, and going on road trips throughout the U.S. with Bill were some of her favorite pastimes. Mary loved music and played the piano. She grew up singing at various churches in Vancouver. Mary was a charter member of the Columbia River Chapter of Sweet Adelines where she sang lead in the barbershop harmony chorus and quartets for decades, competing locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. Mary will always be remembered as a kind, supportive and loving wife, mother and grandmother. Her family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the caring staff of The Hampton Memory Care Residence and to extend blessings to others who have loved ones affected by Alzheimer's. Hamilton Mylan Funeral Home is coordinating services. Mary will be laid to rest in Mother Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider donating to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America or to the Columbia River Chapter of Sweet Adelines.